New Study Links Spanking to Mental Illness

A new study is now linking physical punishment with mental health disorders.

Canadian researchers found that when a child received physical punishment such as slapping, pushing, and hitting, even without neglect or abuse they were likely to experience mood disorders, anxiety, substance abuse, and personality disorders.

Many parents argue that they were spanked and came out just fine. However, previous studies have shown that people who were spanked are at a higher risk for depression and are likely to use alcohol. Prior studies also showed that people who were physically punished were likely to hit their spouses and children and engage in criminal activity.

The American Academy of Pediatrics and the Canadian Pediatric Society advises against the use of corporal punishment. Spanking is considered against the law in 32 countries– not including the United States and Canada.